Vehicle Research

2019 Ram 1500 Goes on Sale

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is now selling the first of its four planned 2019 Ram 1500 models and will offer the remaining trucks later this year and in early 2019, according to the automaker.

The 2019 Ram 1500, which is entering its 15th generation, will include a combination of three engines and three powertrains, including a 5.7L V-8, V-8 mild hybrid, 3.6L V-6 mild hybrid, and 3.0L V-6 EcoDiesel.

Ram began shipping the V-8 non-mild hybrid in late March to dealers. That truck is on sale now. The next truck to arrive will be the V-8 mild hybrid followed by the V-6 mild hybrid this year. In 2019, Ram will begin selling the diesel-powered Ram 1500, said Nick Cappa, Ram Truck communications manager.

Ram is shifting production to the Sterling Heights, Mich., plant to build the new model while the Warren Truck assembly plant will continue building the current version. FCA will also move production of the heavy-duty models, which are now built in Saltillo, Mexico, to Warren in 2020. The outgoing Ram 1500 was also built in Saltillo.

The new pickup arrives with 40 new features, including an array of driver-assisting and safety technologies, a significantly upgraded interior including connectivity updates, and efficiency improvements that increase fuel economy.

Diesel-powered cargo vans are providing fleet buyers with a lower total cost of ownership than gasoline models, while many diesel-powered trucks aren't recouping the higher acquisition cost, according to a Vincentric analysis.

The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado will offer new technology for towing trailers, including a rear-facing camera package and mobile-app control among other enhancements with its fourth-generation large pickup.

The 2018 Nissan Kicks is the automaker's second subcompact SUV in the past year that will slot into its SUV lineup as its entry model just below the Rogue Sport. It offers a FWD-only and somewhat smaller footprint, and replaces the Juke as Nissan's most affordable utility.

Subaru's 2019 Ascent three-row midsize SUV, which went on sale earlier this year, is the largest Subaru ever sold and brings the brand into a highly competitive segment. The Ascent is available in four trim grades with an entry price of $31,995.